Quick Read
- The annual Marco Island Car Show took place on Saturday, February 22, 2026, drawing about 1,400 attendees.
- A factory-fresh Corvette, displayed by R3 Motorcars, was tagged with a price of $264,989, including a $5,000 car show discount.
- Corvettes were the most prevalent model, with a classic 1959 convertible winning the People’s Choice award.
- The event, hosted by the Kiwanis Club, also featured various classic cars, hot rods, and community activities.
MARCO ISLAND (Azat TV) – A factory-fresh Chevrolet Corvette, commanding a price tag of nearly $265,000, was a significant draw at the annual Marco Island Car Show held last Saturday at Veterans’ Community Park. The premium vehicle, displayed by presenting sponsor R3 Motorcars, underscored the strong market and enduring appeal for high-performance American sports cars, captivating approximately 1,400 attendees.
Premium Corvettes Shine at Marco Island Event
The recent Marco Island Car Show, hosted by the Kiwanis Club, showcased a wide array of automobiles, from vintage classics to the latest models. Among the most prevalent vehicles on display were numerous Corvettes, including several brand-new editions from R3 Motorcars. One particular model stood out due to its staggering price of $264,989, which included a stated $5,000 car show discount. This figure highlights the luxury and high-performance segment that the Corvette brand continues to occupy, attracting significant interest from enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
The sheer number and variety of Corvettes at the event were notable, prompting judges to award first, second, and third places specifically within the ‘Vettes category. This dedicated recognition reflects the model’s iconic status and its loyal following among car aficionados. While the specific model of the quarter-million-dollar Corvette was not detailed, its presence signified the cutting-edge engineering and exclusive appeal of contemporary high-performance vehicles.
A Community Celebration of Automotive Passion
Beyond the premium Corvettes, the Marco Island Car Show offered a diverse collection of automotive gems. Attendees had the chance to admire everything from Clay Bulow’s 1924 Ford Model T, which he had driven 1,800 miles from Minnesota, to Ray Cappella’s 1969 Ford Bronco, an early SUV that won its category. The event served as a vibrant community gathering, despite a slight decrease in overall car numbers compared to the previous year, attributed to a rescheduled show in North Naples, as noted by event co-chair Barbara Murphy.
The show also featured various activities and booths, including offerings from young entrepreneurs in the Biz Kidz Hub program and a bake sale by Marco Island Academy students. DJ Sugarcube provided entertainment, hosting ‘car owner karaoke’ and facilitating a 50/50 raffle that raised $745 for the Kiwanis Club’s foundation efforts supporting local school children.
The Corvette’s Enduring Legacy and Appeal
The popularity of the Corvette transcended new models, with a classic 1959 convertible model in two-tone metallic blue, owned by Bryan Petett, winning the prestigious People’s Choice award. This recognition, determined by votes from all spectators, underscores the enduring legacy and timeless design appeal of the Corvette across generations. The blend of classic appreciation and modern innovation was a defining characteristic of the show, demonstrating the wide spectrum of automotive tastes satisfied by the brand.
The display of a nearly $265,000 Corvette at a local car show not only showcases the brand’s reach into the ultra-luxury performance segment but also illustrates the sustained enthusiasm for high-end American sports cars, blending historical reverence with cutting-edge automotive technology.